Spa Week at Chocolate For Your Body in Chicago!

Work + Traffic + Wind +Limited Funds = a boat-load of stress.  And even if you don’t have to deal with the aforementioned on a daily basis, you’ve still got it!  So what’s a Chi-town girl to do?  Well lovely ladies, it’s time.  Spa Week is upon us (April 11th-17th) and shining its blissful rays of love our way.  That’s right girls, in just over a week you can soak up every bit of de-stressing powers massages, facials, pedicures, etc. have to offer all at a price that can’t be beat: $50!  For all of the details, visit SpaWeek.com.  For my recommendation, keep reading…

What’s not to love about chocolate?  Despite us knowing why we shouldn’t love it, let’s ponder why we should: 

1) it’s tastey

2) it’s a comfort in times of need

3) it does contain antioxidants (a definite health benefit!)

4) it has an innate ability to pamper us with sublime spa treatments

If you raised your eyebrow at that last reason, you’ve obviously not been introduced to the quaint Chocolate for your Body an Aveda Family Salon Spa sitting in Pilsen’s Art District at 1743 S Halsted.  

When the gals at SpaWeek asked if I’d like to try out the Chocolate Decadence Signature Facial and then write about my experience, all for the benefit of you lovely readers, with mouth watering, I jumped at the chance.  I was fortunate to have the amazing Velina Lazarova, master esthetician and nationally certified massage therapist, gently cleanse, exfoliate, and work her ultra-relaxing cocoa beads into my less-than-worthy face in a modern-rustic room with ambiance that felt like it was gently stroking my hand, begging me to relax. 

Technically, the facial a “hydrating and firming, a super-charged, anti-aging facial” which can be customized to any skin type.  I’m not one to mess with technicalities though, so, off-the-record, it was kind of like that first really nice day of spring, the day when you first open your windows and let the breeze blow in.  Or like that first kiss, with a guy you know you could give your heart to.  That amazing, mind-blowing moment that you never want to end…that’s the Chocolate Decadence Signature Facial (actually probably anything you can book with Velina would be like a small bit of sunshine)!

“Relaxed” doesn’t begin to encompass what my body was feeling and I can only say for you hard working women out there needing to pamper yourselves - do it!  Indulge with the gusto you normally reserve for a day of shopping.  Trust me, when I say you will love it!  And if you’re not in the mood for a facial, Chocolate for your Body also has two other treatments for just $50 during SpaWeek: a 75 minute Chocolate Brown Sugar Scrub & No Chip Pedicure with Bio Sculpture® Gel or a 75 Minute Chocolate Signature Pedicure with Organic Dagoba Chocolate and Warm Paraffin Wax!

Visit SpaWeek.com for a list of participating spas throughout the country, but remember, Spa Week is only happening April 11th-17th!  Happy Spa-ing!

Spring Makeup from e.l.f. Creative Director Achelle Dunaway

What's hot this spring as far as your makeup is concerned?  Achelle Dunaway, Creative Director and Makeup Artist for e.l.f. cosmetics says that super bold brights are making a comeback in a big way.  Neon pinks, oranges, greens and yellows in clothing to accessories and Dunaway says "It's easy to incorporate these trends into our beauty routines as long as you follow a few simple rules."  Below, shares her favorite looks and how-to's for beauty mavens and novices alike:

The Bolder, The Better! 

"This season is all about striking shades," says Dunaway.  "Whether the focus is on eyes, lips or nails, stick with bold color choices and don't be afraid to choose funky shades to create a fun and multidimensional look.  I like to pair they yellow and pink hues from e.l.f. Essentials Duo Eye Shadow Cream in Sugar Cookie ($1) and then add a touch of shimmer across the lash lines with e.l.f. Essentials Shimmer Eyeliner in Grassy Green ($1) to give the effects of an illuminating highlighter.  Add two coats of lengthening mascara for that extra va-va-va-voom appeal and you're good to go!"

Guilt Free Glow

"There's nothing more timeless or sexier than a flawless, radiant YOU and naturally glowing skin will ensure you stand out from the crowd,"  says Dunaway.  "Create a delicate, smooth complexion with a lightweight tinted moisturizer with added skincare benefits such as the NEW e.l.f. Studio Tinted Moisturizer SPF 20 ($3), it contains SPF for protection, aloe and vitamins A and E for around-the-clock hydration.  Add a bold statement by blending a hot-pink blush such as e.l.f. Studio Cream Blush in Flirt ($6) the apples of the cheeks for a faux sun-kissed glow!"  

Those aren't the only two tips Dunaway has to offer!  Check out our DIY for one more trend - Matchy-Matchy is Catchy!

DEWAR Helps Define the Modern Man

DEWAR’S Scotch Whisky “Defined the Modern Man” in Los Angeles Thursday night at the swanky Redbury Hotel where Hollywood’s funniest man, Joel McHale, joined his funniest friends - Community Co-star actress Alison Brie and Executive Producer and Writer of E!’s The Soup KP Anderson - along with rising star Grey’s Anatomy’s Jesse Williams and author/mixologist Dan Dunn for an evening of casual debate.  At the DEWAR’S hosted event, moderator Joel McHale and panelists joked about what makes today’s man tick. 

The night of course called upon one of Joel’s ultimate modern men – Ryan Seacrest.  Ryan after all embodies many qualities of the modern man (good looks, beautiful girlfriend, and successful career) but after plenty of back and forth between Joel and the rest of the panel, Jesse Williams silenced the panel asking, “can hobbits be modern men?”  And KP Anderson admitted, “Well yes, Frodo was the modern man after all!”

In the end, Joel’s friends and fellow panelists were quick to call him the ultimate “modern man”, with KP Anderson adding “the modern man never says out loud I am gonna tweet this.  Joel says I’M gonna HAVE someone tweet this”. 

So who is the “modern man”?  The jury is still out on that one but Joel Mchale (with the help of some DEWAR’S on the rocks) sure got the discussion started.

Also in attendance were fashion journalist and TV personality Louise Roe, designer Rebecca Minkoff (her first public appearance since announcing her pregnancy), Zoe Saldana’s fiancé and founder of MyFashionDatabase Keith Britton, British actress Gemma Chan and many of LA’s finest “modern men”…and women.

What characteristics do you feel make up the modern man?

A-Listers Shop Rebecca Taylor and Warm-Up With Kim Crawford Wines

The Meatpacking District was buzzing Wednesday night with the opening of Rebecca Taylor's new flagship boutique.  

After braving a mix of hail and snow, A-listers B-lined to warm up with booze, sponsored by Kim Crawford Wines, including Michelle Trachtenberg, Katrina Bowden, Selita Ebanks, Tika Sumpter and Alice Eve.  The guests celebrated the new outpost and Rebecca Taylor's 15th Anniversary while shopping the new and beautiful Spring collection.  

Rebecca Taylor and CEO, Beth Budgaycay weclomed guests into the new store while beats by DJ Danny Rockz blasted throughout.  A raffle was also held  with the winner receiving a one-of-a-kind gown designed and created for Taylor's film "Beautiful Dream."  All proceeds from the raffle will be donated to the American Red Cross relief efforts in Japan.  

 

 

All that Glitters is Glam...Just Ask Khloe Kardashian!

Celebs are adoring glitter these days and have been adding a bit more sparkle than norm.  Take Khloe Kardashian Odom, seen here helping brother Rob celebrate his birthday in style at JET nightclub in Las Vegas March 18th.  Her glitter silver hoops are a perfect compliment to her Alexander McQueen printed dress.  

Want a similar look sans a similar price tag?  Check out our Multi-Hoop Glitter Earrings (also available in Gold) for just $17.50!

Easy DIY Hairstyles from ECRU and New York Streets

Easy DIY must-try hairstyle: romantic twist. Start by applying a volumizing spray such as ECRU New York Volumizing Silk Mist to damp hair and then blow-dry, creating texture with fingers. Then, starting at the front, twist a small section of the hair on the sides (temporarily pin each side) and pull the hair back into a loose bun or chignon. 

Tired of the same old hairstyle?  Add a little bit of flair to a casual up-do or even a simple ponytail with a headband like True Grit's Hailee Steinfeld!  Try New York Streets Hairspray to lock in your look.

Get an EBOOST!

You know the feeling...you're dragging, tired and these spring showers are not helping the situation.  Instead of running to Starbucks for a caffeine overload, or the convenience store for a case of the jitters in the form of other energy drinks, try EBOOST!  I was lucky enough to try the natural energy and immunity drinks, made up of green tea extracts and vitamins for a happy alternative to your daily health and energy!  Click here for a full list of the vitamins and minerals in each drink.

What I Tried:

Pink Lemonade: a tart effervescent add-to-your-water packet full of vitamins for immunity, green tea to remain alert and focused, and B vitamins to give you energy when you need it most - to cool off after a workout to perform at your best and recover quickly.  Plus, 10% of all proceeds go to the National Breast Cancer Foundation.

Acai Pomegranate: sweet and savory, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants combine for energy and health benefits.  Acai delivers a powerful antioxidant kick and pomegranate lends an amazing taste and health benefits.  Also a huge benefit in aiding during your recovery process after a workout.  The newest flavor in their line, it also delivers Resveratrol and Quercetin fo an extra edge. 




The results were just as you'd expect for less healthier drinks, sans the jitters, crash, or letdown after five hours.  EBOOST provides energy, immunity, recovery (including hangovers), and helps you focus.  It's a also a more natural alternative, containing no sugar, artificial flavors or colors, high fructose corn syrup, crystalline fructose, gluten or lactose.  Perfection!  And with celeb endorsements from the likes of Amar'e Stoudermire, Ophrah, Dhani Jones, and Giuliana Rancic you'll be in good company on your path to health and wellness!

This Just In: Urban Therapy's Twisted Sista Blow Drying Crème!

March is half way over and not only are we seeing the last of winter and start of spring, we're also being introduced to the newest product in the London-based Urban Therapy family - Twisted Sista Blow Drying Crème!

Launching at Walgreens this month the new Blow Drying Crème helps smooth, moisturize and straighten locks while keeping strands safe from blow dryer and flat iron damage.  

Stocked with Sunflower Seed Oil, vitamins A, C, and E, Calcium, Zinc, and Potassium, as well as hair loss-fighting Omega6 fatty acids, strengthening Panthenol, and other naturally derived emollients, the Blow Drying Crème strengthens hair, regulates pH balance to keep hair hydrated and frizz-free, protects against UV damage and improves scalp circulation for increased shine, manageability and definition.

The entire Twisted Sista range retails for less than $5 at Walgreens nationwide and in celebration of the new product, Urban Therapy is offering a 2-for-$7 deal at Walgreens nationwide until the end of March.

Dallas, Atlanta, and Beverly Hills: Get your Free Brazilian Wax at Completely Bare Spas!

Nothing is better than free, so ladies book your free Brazilian at Completely Bare Spas in Dallas, Atlanta, and Beverly Hills locations!  Call 855-366-6060 to book!  Valid through 3/31/11.

 

Brett Freedman Shows us how to Achieve Retro Pin-up Girl Makeup

Are you a fan of the retro pin--up look Katy Perry pulls off so well?  Genius celeb makeup artist Brett Freedman shows us how to re-create the look through this demo with glam model Icey.  Sizzling hot!

 

Dr. Imber's Skin Cancer Awareness Tips

A chill may still be in the air, but spring and summer activities are right around the corner, which is why we thought it important to post the below skin cancer awareness tips (Skin Cancer Awareness Month takes place in May).  World renowned celebrity plastic surgeon Dr. Gerald Imber (DrImber.com) shares the below tips based on his philosophy: prevention - maintenance - treatment, to help protect against skin cancer.

PREVENTION

·      Damaging sunlight involves two portions of the light spectrum: UVA and UVB.

UVB rays cause tanning and skin cancers in the superficial layer of the skin, and are prevalent in the mid day of the summer season. (10-4).

UVA rays are much more common, up to 50x more than UVB, and penetrate to the deep layer of the skin (dermis). They cause aging by denaturing collagen, and contribute to the development of skin cancers. UVA rays penetrate clothing and un-tinted glass. UVA and UVB are the best types of sunscreen. A combination of chemical ingredients as well as a sun block, or reflector of the sun’s rays is recommended.  Do not believe claims of “waterproof or sport proof.” Sun protective clothing helps as well.

·      Youth Corridor Soothe & Defend™ Moisturizer with SPF 30 UVA and UVB protection (www.youthcorridor.com) is a great daily use moisturizer and sunscreen. Many companies, like Neutrogena’s Sensitive Skin Sunblock Lotion, produce excellent titanium dioxide products for summer sun use.

·      The most overlooked areas in need of protection are the nose, the neck and the back of the hands.

MAINTENANCE

·      It is not known whether any treatment can protect against incipient skin cancer, but aging accelerated by sun exposure is manifested in brown spots (sunspot), wrinkles and laxity of skin caused by collagen loss. These can be significantly reversed by certain laser treatments and by the daily application of antioxidant serums such as Youth Corridor (www.youthcorridor.com) Boost Skin Serum with 10% Vitamin C, E and Melatonin.

·      It takes more than 25 years for skin cancer to develop. 80% of a lifetime of sun exposure occurs by age 18. Skin cancers typically develop after 50.

·      Concerning skin cancer signs include irregular skin areas, growing lesions, or moles, and changing dark spots.

CORRECTION

·      80% of all skin cancers are basal cell carcinoma usually cured by simple surgical excision. 10% are squamous cell carcinomas which have the ability to spread and must be excised more aggressively. The remaining 10% are melanomas, which are potentially lethal, and must be treated surgically, and very aggressively. These are typically very dark, spreading pigment spots, though occasionally may present in other forms.

·      Skin cancers of the face present the difficult problem of removing them completely without defect or deformity.  In areas like the nose, cheek or near the eyes skin, cancers are often removed by a technique called Moh’s Surgery.  It actually maps the area and insures that all the cancer has been removed. This often leaves the patient with a difficult to repair defect. I have specialized in repairing difficult defects for several Moh’s surgeons for many years and the results are often nothing short of miraculous. It is a rewarding application of all the skills of the plastic surgeon, and an important service to provide the community.

Wacoal Gifts the iPant During Oscar Weekend

It's tough dressing Hollywood's hottest but Wacoal took on the job with the gift of the iPant at the Green Expo over the Oscars weekend.  The iPant, the first U.S. shapewear to include Novarel Slim technology, which visably reduces the appearance of cellulite, had notables like Elaine Hendrix, Vienna Girardi, Tippi Hedren and Shar Jackson (all pictured below) ready to undress and re-dress in their new shapewear.  The iPant retails for $60 and is available at Wacoal-america.com and nationwide at department stores.  

(Photos Courtesy Alive! Expo Green Pavilion)

Brett Freedman Dishes on Camilla Belle's Makeup Look at the Chanel pre-Oscar Party

We're all still buzzing over the fashion we saw at the Oscar's over the weekend.  But let's not forget all the pre and post Oscar events celebs dazzled at.  Below, Hollywood makeup artist Brett Freedman shares exactly what he did to give Camilla Belle this gorgeous face at the Chanel pre-Oscar dinner held at Madeo Restaurant Saturday evening.  Looking stellar in her Chanel dress and Giuseppe Zanotti, wedges Freedman gave the star a bright effervescent look to cheer the navy ensemble:

FACE – Base: Lorac Natural Performance in NP5. Loose Powder: DermaMinerals Buildable Coverage Loose Powder in 4N. Pressed Powder (around eyes): DermaMinerals Buildable Coverage Pressed Powder in 2C. I like to go a touch lighter under eyes and on lids to add a crispness to the area. Concealer: Yves Saint Laurent Radiant Touch in #2.

EYES – Eyeshadow Quad: Chanel in Smoky Eyes. I used cool tones in pale shades so there would still be a contrast with the spikes of her lashes. I wanted a nice pop! Liquid eyeliner: Shiseido in Black.
Liquid eyeliner highlight: Urban Decay in Revolver, a metallic gunpowder shade.  I lined Camilla's top lash line in black and extended a bit. I then went just above it with this pewter/silver shade to add depth and a touch of eye-catching sparkle. Mascara: MAC Wonder Women in Bad, Bad Black. Lashes: Ardel #81 in Black.  I cut the inner quarter off so they didn't go from extend all the way from tear duct to outer end. I wanted the strip to start just before mid-eye to accentuate the liner look. Brow: Vanitymark Ultra-Brow pencil in Dark Choco.  Camilla already has statement brows, so I just lightly filled in under the hairs with this deep brown pencil and tidied up the brow line with a grooming wand.
 
CHEEKS – Blush: Benefit Benetint and Girls Love Pearls.  After applying the wine-colored Benetint cheek stain, I added Girls Love Pearls on top as a glisten-y highlighter. 

BVLGARI Shines at the Academy Awards!

The stars shone bright at Sunday night's Academy Awards with dazzling dresses and beautiful bling.  BVLGARI, always a hot commodity, made its way to several stars, including Celine Dion (who was definitely on the best dressed list in Giorgio Armani Privé) and Best Actor nominee Jeff Bridges and his wife, Susan all donning the stunning jewels:

Everything about singer Celine Dion's look was "right," including her BVLGARI gems :

-18kt yellow gold with diamonds, green spinel and emeralds necklace, from BVLGARI's Historical Archives Collection 

-18kt yellow gold with sapphire, diamonds and peridot ring, from BVLGARI's High Jewelry Collection 

Photo courtesy Steve Granitz, WireImage

One of Hollywood's "it" couples, Jeff and Susan Bridges, both chose BVLGARI to accessorize:

On Jeff...

-Stainless steel watch, from BVLGARI's Sotirio Bulgari Collection

-Stainless steel and onyx shirt studs, from BVLGARI's Bulgari.Bulgari Collection

-18kt white gold with onyx and diamond cufflinks, from BVLGARI's Quadrato Collection

On Susan...

-18kt white gold and diamond necklace, from BVLGARI's High Jewelry Collection

-Two 18kt white gold and diamond bracelets, from BVLGARI's High Jewelry Collection

-18kt white gold and diamond earrings, from BVLGARI's Griffe Collection

Photo courtesy Jeff Kravitz, FilmMagic